Student Gives 'Blessing-bags' to Residents in Need

By Kenneth Mullinax/ASU

 

In this holiday season of thanks and kindness to others, an Alabama State University student has taken it upon herself to purchase, assemble and give essential items and love to residents of a local nursing home in Montgomery, Ala. Andeana Stewart, an Education major at ASU, calls the gifts "Blessing Bags."

 

Each "Blessing Bag" contains toiletry items and candies. The first bags were pesented to the residents of Montgomery's Crown Nursing Home on Nov. 19. Stewart plans to continue the project through Christmas and for as long as she has the money to do so.

 

"Everyday that the Lord gives us is a special day and those of us who are blessed with our health and good finances have an obligation to spread the blessings that we have with those who are less fortunate," Stewart said. 

 

The Montgomery native began her quest of kindness in December of 2021 and has no plans to stop.

Stewart credits ASU academic advisor, Geraldine Jones, for helping and encouraging her to give to others. 

"I think it is a great thing that Ms. Stewart is doing. She is following the example of our ASU President, Dr. (Quinton) Ross, who preaches the goodness of 'CommUniversity' for ASU," Jones said. "I cannot think of any better example of doing it (CommUniversity) than for it to come from an ASU student who takes it upon herself to accomplish with no expectation of reward or publicity. That is why I contacted the University's public relations department so Ms. Stewart could receive a group hug from our Hornet Nation."

 

 Stewart says she was not seeking publicity for her good deeds.

 

"I love to bring joy and happiness into the lives of everyone that I meet and the only payback that I desire is a smile and a hug."

 

News media contact: Kenneth Mullinax, 334-229-4104.

 

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